Image input unit

ABSTRACT

A PC card camera has a structure in which a universal joint to which a video camera is attached is mounted on a PC card body. The video camera comprises an optical lens unit and a solid-state area sensor of the photoelectric transducer type. The universal joint holds the video camera in such a manner that the angular position thereof can be adjusted freely with respect to the PC card. The PC card body is provided with a guide for guiding the card into a slot provided in a personal computer, a connector for connecting the PC card to the personal computer, and a cut-out which prevents the PC card from being inserted incorrectly. With the PC card connected to the personal computer, the angular position of the video camera can be adjusted via the universal joint.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This invention relates to a camera used with a computer forentering a moving or still picture into the computer, particularly animage input unit for entering an image into a computer via an extensioncard capable of being inserted into and withdrawn from the computer.

[0002] An example of an image input unit widely used in TV telephonesand television conference systems is a video camera employing aphotoelectric transducer-type solid-state area sensor such as a CCD.Further, a television conference system using a personal computer hasrecently been proposed. The system includes a video camera in the formof a separately manufactured product for the purpose of enteringconference data and a photographic image of the speaker's face. Thevideo camera is used by being placed on top or at the side of thepersonal computer.

[0003]FIG. 1 illustrates an example of the construction of a capturecard for a mono-chrome video camera according to the prior art. In FIG.4, numeral 1001 denotes a CCD image sensing device, 1002 a verticaldriver for driving a vertical register of the CCD sensing device 1001,1003 a timing pulse generator for generating timing pulses necessary forcontrol of the CCD image sensing device 1001 and for image processing,1004 a synchronizing signal generator for generating an NTSCsynchronizing signal, and 1005 a signal processing circuit for executingAGC (automatic gain control) and a gamma correction. In the video cameraconstructed as shown in FIG. 1, the image signal from the CCD imagesensing device is converted to a prescribed video signal by the signalprocessing circuit 1005 and the video signal is outputted. At this time,it is possible to output a moving picture of 30 frame per second as thevideo signal.

[0004] An NTSC image signal which is outputted from the above describedvideo camera cannot be entered into a personal computer withoutconverting the format of the signal. However, a personal computer into aslot of which a video capture board is inserted that converts an NTSCsignal into an signal acceptable by the computer can input a sensedimage.

[0005]FIG. 2 is an explanatory view illustrating an example of use of aconventional video camera connected to the personal computer in whichthe video capture board is installed. Shown in FIG. 2 are a personalcomputer 1010, a display 1011, a keyboard 1012 and a video camera 1013having a camera body 1013 a comprising a lens, a sensor and so on. Thecamera body 1013 a is supported on a panning head 1013 b in such amanner that its angular position can be freely adjusted vertically andhorizontally. An AC cord 1013 d supplies the camera body 1013 a andpanning head 1013 b with electric power. A signal line 1013 c allows acontrol signal for the panning head 1013 b and an image signal from thecamera body 1013 a to be exchanged between the camera body 1013 a andpersonal computer 1010. The image signal is sent to a video captureboard (not shown) connected to an extension slot of the personalcomputer. The power for the camera body 1013 a and panning head 1013 bis supplied not from the personal computer but independently from itsown AC cord. The lens unit has an autofocus function but is equippedwith a manual or electrically powered zoom mechanism.

[0006] In addition to entering image information, there has beenproposed an extension card which allows to enter audio, when it isinstalled in a personal computer. An example of such an extension cardis as illustrated in FIG. 3. Specifically, a PC card 1051 capable ofentering audio has a connector 1052 provided on the edge of the card onthe side-opposite that connected to the main body of a personal computeror the like. The connector 1052 is connected to a connection box 1053via a cable 1055 in order to connect the PC card to a microphone 1054 orother external acoustic device. Thus, various sounds such as a voice ormusic may be entered into a personal computer.

[0007] Further, as shown in FIG. 4, a telephone 1061 is equipped with acamera unit 1062 and a display unit 1063. This is a known example of acommunication terminal used as a special-purpose TV telephone.

[0008] Further, there is an image communication apparatus in which acamera for a computer has monitor means capable of displaying the imageof a communicating party continuously in a time series and image inputmeans placed at a position where it will pick up the image of theoperator from the side of the monitor means. Conventionally, the imagecommunication apparatus used in this field is employed in a TV telephoneor TV conference system. An example of the construction and arrangementof this apparatus are illustrated in FIG. 5. Numeral 1110 denotes theso-called camera unit, 1111 a camera lens unit, 1120 a monitor, 1121 amonitor display screen, 1122 the image of the other party tocommunication, 1123 the operator's own image, 1130 a computerconstructing the communication apparatus, and 1131 a keyboard. Thecamera unit 1110 is placed at the periphery of the monitor unit 1120 ofthe computer set, and is connected to the computer 1130 by a connectingcord 1100. The operator's own image 1123 is picked up and transmitted tothe other party by the camera unit 1110. The camera unit 1110 employs aCCD camera and often is integrated with a microphone. This apparatus hasalready reached the product stage for use in various applications suchas simple TV conference systems using a personal computer having a videocapture function.

[0009] In these image communication apparatus already available asfinished products and now in practical use, the display capability ofthe monitor such as a CRT is outstanding in terms of, say, the number ofdisplay pixels, but the communication speed of the apparatus is somewhatwanting. Consequently, displaying the other party's image over the fullscreen and using monitor resolution to the maximum limit is almost neverdone. Often the display is confined to a small screen area whose sizeconforms to the speed of the communication line. Though it is possibleto provide a full-screen display by enlarging pixels, this results isdiminished picture quality. Further, since icons, menus and guidancedisplays are often presented on the screen, displaying the other party'simage over the entire screen is not the general practice.

[0010] In the image communication apparatus of FIG. 5, the problem ofso-called “non-coincidence of line of sight” arises. Non-coincidence ofline of sight refers to a situation in which the line of sight of theother party appearing on the screen and the line of sight of the speakeron this side of the screen do not coincide, thus giving rise to asensation in which the two parties each seem to be speaking to adifferent person from the viewpoint of the other party. FIG. 6 is aconceptual view showing an example of a conventional sight coincidencemechanism which uses a half-mirror to solve the problem ofnon-coincidence of line of sight.

[0011] The arrangement of FIG. 6 differs from that of FIG. 5 in that ahalf-mirror 1701 is placed on the monitor line of sight of a user 1702to split the optical path, and the camera.1110 placed above thehalf-mirror 1701 is made approximately the same as the position of theline of sight of the other party's image on the monitor screen 1121,thereby making the lines of sight coincide.

[0012] The drawbacks of the prior arts set forth above will now bedescribed.

[0013] The video camera of FIGS. 1 and 2 is disadvantageous in that thelens itself is large in size owing to the autofocus mechanism andzoom-lens mechanism, though the solid-state area sensor per se is small.In addition, since the panning head 1013 b for adjusting the imagepick-up angle and the independent power supply for the head arerequired, the overall size of the apparatus is enlarged.

[0014] Further, a video capture card is necessary to enter the imageoutput of the video camera into the personal computer. However, sincethere is no allowance for an extension slot, the connection cannot bemade. Furthermore, in order to control the operation of the video cameraon the side of the personal computer, a control port such as an RS232Cport on the side of the personal computer and a control circuit on theside of the video camera must be connected.

[0015] In a case where audio is entered in the PC card shown in FIG. 3,the PC card 1051 is inserted into the personal computer, the cable 1055from the connection box 1053 is connected to the connector 1052 of thePC card and the microphone 1054 is connected to the connection box 1053.Thus, making the connections requires considerable labor, there are manycables and the connection box 1053 also is required. As a result, the PCcard 1051, which was originally intended to be readily portable, becomesless easy to carry about and more difficult to use.

[0016] In the arrangement of FIG. 4, the device is a communicationterminal capable of being used as a TV telephone or merely as atelephone. Portability is not taken into consideration and the devicecannot be used in other types of applications.

[0017] With regard to the video camera shown in FIG. 5, it has beenattempted to realize a TV telephone using a telephone line incombination with a video capture card. Since line speed is slow,however, it is quite impossible to send and receive images at 30 framesper second. For example, when one frame of a video signal is composed of640×480 pixels, one frame is equal to 640×480×3 bytes or approximatelyone megabyte, where each of the colors R, G, B is composed of one byteof data. If 30 frames are transmitted every second, there is a 30-foldincrease to about 30 megabytes per second. Even if compression isapplied at a rate of {fraction (1/30)}, the required transfer rate willbe 1 M bytes/sec=8 Mbps. The transmission speed of a line is 28.8 kbpsin the case of an ordinary telephone line and 64 kbps in the case of asISDN, meaning that transmission of all of the image information isimpossible. In general, therefore, the moving picture informationtransmitted has its image size or the number of frames reduced. There isneed for a moving-picture entry system capable of being simply utilizedat low cost with some reduction in the number of frames owing to thelimitation in terms of communication speed.

[0018] The examples of the prior art shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 are asfollows. Since the camera unit 1110 is placed at the periphery of thedisplay 1121 of monitor 1120, parallax indicated at L in FIG. 5 occurswhen the operator looks at the other party's image 1122. Though verticalparallax is shown in the example of FIG. 5, parallax is also producedhorizontally by the position of the other party's image. In the stateshown in FIG. 5, the equivalent of the distance between the centers ofthe two images 1122 and 1123 is the parallax in the horizontaldirection. The fact that the line of sight of the other party and theoperator's own line of sight do not match produces a disagreeablesensation. This is the “non-coincidence of line of sight”. The statefree of this phenomenon is referred to as “coincidence of line ofsight”. The same disagreeable sensation is produced when one's own image1123 is checked.

[0019] A system resembling a so-called prompter is known as means forentering one's own image 1123 in a state in which the lines of sightmatch. As show in FIG. 6, the means includes the half-mirror placedbetween tl camera unit 1110 and the monitor unit 1120 to split theoptical path. Since this arrangement uses the large half-mirror 1701,which is large enough to over the monitor screen, the following problemsarise:

[0020] (1) The system is vulnerable to contamination such as soiling byfingerprints owing to the presence of the half-mirror itself.

[0021] (2) The half-mirror required is placed in the space of twosubstantially quadrangular pyramids from both eyes of the user to thefour corners of the monitor screen and must be of a size capable ofcovering the image pick-up field angle of the camera, which is placedoutside this space. This increases the overall dimensions of theapparatus.

[0022] (3) As a result, the apparatus cannot be manufactured at lowcost.

[0023] (4) In a case where the apparatus is constructed using a personalcomputer, it is not possible to rapidly modify the apparatus to use itas an ordinary personal computer (namely to a state in which theoptical-path splitting means has been excluded from the system).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0024] An object of the present invention is to solve the aforementionedproblems of the prior art.

[0025] Another object of the present invention is to provide an imageinput unit that is small in size, light in weight and highly portable.

[0026] Another object of the present invention is to provide an imageinput unit that can be easily connected to a personal computer and doesnot require its own power supply.

[0027] A further object of the present invention is to provide an imageinput unit in which the image pick-up angle can be adjusted in a simplemanner.

[0028] According to the present invention, the foregoing objects areattained by providing-an image sensing apparatus sensing an image tosupply to an information processing device, comprising: a camera unitand a base unit connected to the camera unit, wherein the base unitincludes: signal processing means for performing a process to supply animage signal from the camera unit to the information processing device;and timing control means for controlling a timing in which the imagesignal is supplied from the camera unit to the information processingdevice.

[0029] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, thecamera unit comprises a lens, and a sensor converting incident lightfrom an object through the lens into an image signal. This expedient isdesirable in that it assures portability.

[0030] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, thesignal processing means comprises storage means (such as a FIFO typememory) for storing an image signal sensed by the camera unit. Thisexpedient allows signal processing in the apparatus.

[0031] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, thesignal processing means comprises a register used for transmitting andreceiving data to and from the information processing device.

[0032] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, thebase unit is in a shape of card. This improves portability.

[0033] Still another object of the present invention is to provide animage sensing apparatus through which such a TV telephone functioncan-be added to a compact, portable personal computer such as anotebook-type personal computer or to a personal information device suchas a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant).

[0034] According to the present invention, this object is attained byproviding an image sensing apparatus sensing an image to supply to aninformation processing device, said apparatus comprising: a camera unit;and a base unit connected to the camera unit, wherein the base unithaving: signal processing means for processing to supply an image signalfrom the camera unit to the information processing device; and audioinput means for inputting audio.

[0035] A further object of the present invention is to provide an imagesensing apparatus through which a TV telephone function can be added todevice not having a speaker, namely to a compact, portable personalcomputer such as a notebook-type personal computer or to a personalinformation device such as a PDA.

[0036] According to the present invention, this object is attained byproviding an image sensing apparatus further comprising audio outputmeans.

[0037] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, theaudio input means is provided at a side surface of the base unit, theside surface being different from a surface at which the base unit isconnected to the information processing device. This to use such asmicrophone even if the apparatus is connected to the informationprocessing device.

[0038] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, theaudio output means, such as earphone is provided at a same side surfaceof the base unit at which the base unit is connected to the camera unit.

[0039] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide animage sensing apparatus in which, by pointing a camera in an imagecapturing direction and then imaging a subject, image data which iscorrect in the vertical direction can be outputted to the apparatus evenif the orientation at the upper portion of the apparatus is unnatural.

[0040] According to the present invention, this object is attained byproviding an image sensing apparatus n image sensing apparatuscomprising: image sensing means for sensing an image; a switch arrangedaround the image sensing means; storage means for storing image dataobtained by the image sensing means; and means for altering a read-outsequence of the image data stored in the storage means in accordancewith an operation of the switch.

[0041] By virtue of this arrangement, the order in which the capturedimage is read out is changed by manipulating the switch. This makes itpossible to supply an image having any orientation irrespective oforientation of the camera. An image having the correct verticalorientation can be outputted even if the top of the camera is orientedto one side.

[0042] Further, in order to attain the same object, an image sensingdevice according to the present invention comprises: image sensing meansfor sensing an image; storage means for storing image data sensed by theimage sensing means; gravity detection means for detecting a directionof the gravity; and means for altering a read-out sequence of the imagedata stored in the storage means in accordance with an output of thegravity detection means.

[0043] In accordance with this arrangement, the apparatus has gravitydetection means adapted to sense the vertical direction by utilizing theforce of gravity. On the basis of the sensed information, the order inwhich the captured image is read out is changed and it is possible tosupply an image for which the direction of gravity is correctirrespective of the direction of the upper portion of the camera. Animage having the correct vertical direction can be outputted even if thetop of the camera is pointing to one side.

[0044] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, theimage sensing device has display means for displaying the direction ofthe captured image.

[0045] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, thegravity detection means comprises a rotating pendulum.

[0046] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, therotating pendulum comprises a rotary shaft which substantially coincideswith a direction of image sensing by the image sensing means, and asector-shaped portion that is perpendicular to the rotary shaft, and theimage sensing apparatus comprises sensor means for sensing a position ofthe sector-shaped portion.

[0047] Yet another object of the present invention is to realize, by arational and inexpensive approximate solution technique, the coincidenceof lines of sight without relying upon a technique which makes lines ofsight coincide, this being accomplished by obtaining a camera optic-axisarrangement in which agreement with the line of sight of the user isachieved while the front of a monitor is kept visible, as in the mannerof means using the splitting of an optical path employed in theprior-art examples of FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0048] According to the present invention, this object is attained byproviding an image sensing apparatus sensing an image to supply to aninformation processing device, comprising: a camera unit; a base unitconnected to the camera unit, the base unit including signal processingmeans for performing a process to supply an image signal from the cameraunit to the information processing device; fixing means for fixing thecamera unit to the information processing device so that the camera isfixed separately from the base unit.

[0049] In accordance with this arrangement, the camera is fixedseparately from the base unit, and the fixing position of the cameraunit is set freely.

[0050] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, thefixing means possesses a portion utilizing the suction force of asuction-cup member and including a part of the optical system of theimage input means. The fixing and unfixing of the image input means isfacilitated by utilizing the suction force of the suction-cup member.

[0051] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, thefixing means comprises a sucker which adsorbs the camera unit. Thisfacilitates attachment and detachment of the camera unit.

[0052] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, thefixing means comprises an adhesive which adheres the camera unit. Theadhesive applies a pressure to the information processing device that isless than that of the sucker. Therefore, if the device includes a touchpanel, the touch panel will not be caused to operate properly.

[0053] Other features and advantages of the present invention will beapparent from the following description taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings, in which like reference characters designate thesame or similar parts throughout the figures thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0054]FIG. 1 is diagram showing the construction of a mono-chrome videocamera according to the prior art;

[0055]FIG. 2 is an explanatory view illustrating an example of use of avideo camera used upon being connected to a personal computer;

[0056]FIG. 3 is an explanatory view showing the state of utilization ofa PC card according to the prior art;

[0057]FIG. 4 is an explanatory view of a TV telephone according to theprior art;

[0058]FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the construction of animage communication apparatus according to the prior art;

[0059]FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing the arrangement of means forachieving coincidence of line of sight according to an example of theprior art;

[0060]FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of aPC card camera serving as a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0061]FIG. 8 is an explanatory view showing a state in which a PC cardcamera is connected to a personal computer;

[0062]FIG. 9 is an explanatory view showing a state in which the PC cardcamera is connected to a portable information device;

[0063]FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the flow of signals in a casewhere the PC card camera is used as a video camera upon being connectedto a personal computer or portable information device;

[0064]FIG. 11 is a sectional view showing the structure of a universaljoint;

[0065]FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of aPC card camera according to modification of the first embodiment;

[0066]FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the arrangement of a secondembodiment of the invention;

[0067]FIG. 14A is a block diagram showing the construction of aninterface according to the second embodiment;

[0068]FIG. 14B is a table showing the contents of command/statusregister used in a second embodiment;

[0069]FIG. 14C is a table showing the contents of command/statusregister used in the second embodiment;

[0070]FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing the construction of a camerahead according to the second embodiment;

[0071]FIG. 16 is a timing chart showing the operation of a sensor unitaccording to the second embodiment;

[0072]FIG. 17 is a timing chart showing operation on the side of apersonal computer in the second embodiment;

[0073]FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of aPC card camera according to a third embodiment;

[0074]FIG. 19 is a diagram showing the PC card of the third embodimentwhen a camera unit and an earphone have been connected thereto;

[0075]FIGS. 20A and 20B are diagrams for describing the camera unit;

[0076]FIG. 21 is a functional block diagram of the PC card according tothe third embodiment;

[0077]FIG. 22 is a diagram showing the PC card of the third embodimentwhen it has been attached to a personal computer;

[0078]FIG. 23 is a diagram showing the state of the display on thepersonal computer to which the third embodiment has been attached, thisdisplay being that which prevails before a telephone conversation;

[0079]FIG. 24 is a diagram showing the state of the display on thepersonal computer to which the third embodiment has been attached, thisdisplay being that which prevails during a telephone conversation;

[0080]FIG. 25 is a perspective view showing a PC card of a fourthembodiment when it has been attached to a portable information terminalsuch as a PDA;

[0081]FIGS. 26A, 26B are explanatory views showing the construction of afifth embodiment of the present invention;

[0082]FIG. 27 is a perspective view showing the fifth embodiment in astate connected to a personal computer;

[0083]FIG. 28A is a block diagram of the fifth embodiment;

[0084]FIG. 28B is a diagram for describing a method of using switches inthe fifth embodiment;

[0085]FIGS. 29A, 29B are explanatory views showing the construction of asixth embodiment of the invention;

[0086]FIG. 30 is a sectional view taken along line Z-Z of FIG. 29B;

[0087]FIG. 31 is a block diagram of the sixth embodiment;

[0088]FIG. 32 is a schematic view showing an image communicationapparatus according to a seventh embodiment of the invention;

[0089]FIG. 33A is a diagram showing an example in which camera positionis changed in FIG. 32;

[0090]FIG. 33B is a diagram for describing the relationship between acamera unit and a lens unit in FIG. 32;

[0091]FIG. 34 is an external view showing fixing means provided with asuction cup in the seventh embodiment;

[0092]FIG. 35 is an external view showing fixing means provided with anadhesive member; and

[0093]FIGS. 36A, 36B are diagrams showing the construction of the cameraunit according to the seventh embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0094] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now bedescribed with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0095] <First Embodiment>

[0096] A first embodiment in which the present invention is applied to aPC card camera will described first.

[0097]FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of aPC card camera serving as a first embodiment of the present invention.Numeral 1 denotes a PC card camera according to this embodiment, whichis characterized in that a miniature video camera is mounted on a PCcard used upon being connected to a personal computer. When the PC card,which is standardized as a PCMCIA (Personal Computer Memory CardInternational Association) card, is connected to a personal computer, DCpower is supplied to the PC card from the side of the personal computer.Accordingly, when the video camera is mounted on the PC card, thenecessary power is supplied from the personal computer. This means thatit is possible to realize a card-type video camera that does not requirea power supply. Tables 1 and 2 illustrate the array of pins in aconnector (not shown) on the PC side. This is standard for a PCMCIAcard. The details are described in “JEIDAPC Card Guidelines (Ver. 4.1)”,published by the Japan Electronic Industry Development Association. Thestandard is internationally recognized as PCMCIA 2.1. TABLE 1 IC MEMORYCARD INTERFACE I/O CARD INTERFACE SIGNAL SIGNAL pin NAME I/O FUNCTIONNAME I/O FUNCTION  1 GND GROUND GND GROUND  2 D3 I/O DATA 3 D3 I/O DATA3  3 D4 I/O DATA 4 D4 I/O DATA 4  4 D5 I/O DATA 5 D5 I/O DATA 5  5 D6I/O DATA 6 D6 I/O DATA 6  6 D7 I/O DATA 7 D7 I/O DATA 7  7 −CE1 I CARD−CE1 I CARD ENABLE ENABLE  8 A10 I ADDRESS 10 MO I ADDRESS 10  9 −OE IOUTPUT −OE I OUTPUT ENABLE ENABLE 10 A11 I ADDRESS 11 A11 I ADDRESS 1111 A9 I ADDRESS 9 A9 I ADDRESS 9 12 A8 I ADDRESS 8 A8 I ADDRESS 8 13 A13I ADDRESS 13 A13 I ADDRESS 13 14 A14 I ADDRESS 14 A14 I ADDRESS 14 15−WE/ I WRITE −WE/ I WRITE ENABLE −PGM ENABLE −PGM 16 +RDY/ O READY/BUSY−IREQ O INTERRUPT −BSY 17 VCC OPERATING VCC OPERATING POWER POWER SUPPLYSUPPLY 18 VPP1 PROGRAM VPP1 PROGRAM POWER POWER SUPPLY SUPPLY 19 A16 IADDRESS 16 A16 I ADDRESS 16 20 A15 I ADDRESS 15 A15 I ADDRESS 15 21 A12I ADDRESS 12 A12 I ADDRESS 12 22 A7 I ADDRESS 7 A7 I ADDRESS 7 23 A6 IADDRESS 6 A6 I ADDRESS 6 24 A5 I ADDRESS 5 A5 I ADDRESS 5 25 A4 IADDRESS 4 A4 I ADDRESS 4 26 A3 I ADDRESS 3 A3 I ADDRESS 3 27 A2 IADDRESS 2 A2 I ADDRESS 2 28 A1 I ADDRESS 1 A1 I ADDRESS 1 29 A0 IADDRESS 0 A0 I ADDRESS 0 30 D0 I/O DATA 0 D0 I/O DATA 0 31 D1 I/O DATA 1D1 I/O DATA 1 32 D2 I/O DATA 2 D2 I/O DATA 2 33 +WP O WRITE −IOIS15 O15-BIT I/O PORT PROTECT 34 GND GROUND GND GROUND

[0098] TABLE 2 IC MEMORY CARD INTERFACE I/O CARD INTERFACE SIGNAL SIGNALpin NAME I/O FUNCTION NAME I/O FUNCTION 35 GND GROUND GND GROUND 36 −CD1O CARD −CD1 O CARD DETECT DETECT 37 D11 I/O DATA 11 D11 I/O DATA 11 38D12 I/O DATA 12 D12 I/O DATA 12 39 D13 I/O DATA 13 D13 I/O DATA 13 40D14 I/O DATA 14 D14 I/O DATA 14 41 D15 I/O DATA 15 D15 I/O DATA 15 42−CE2 I CARD −CE2 I CARD ENABLE ENABLE 43 RFSH I REFRESH RFSH I REFRESH44 RFU RESERVED −I/ORD I I/O READ 45 RFU RESERVED −I/OWR I I/O READ 46A17 I ADDRESS 17 A17 I ADDRESS 17 47 A18 I ADDRESS 18 A18 I ADDRESS 1848 A19 I ADDRESS 19 A19 I ADDRESS 19 49 S20 I ADDRESS 20 S20 I ADDRESS20 50 A21 I ADDRESS 21 A21 I ADDRESS 21 51 VCC OPERATING VCC OPERATINGPOWER POWER SUPPLY SUPPLY 52 VPP2 PROGRAM VPP2 PROGRAM POWER POWERSUPPLY SUPPLY & PERIPHERAL POWER SUPPLY 53 A22 I ADDRESS 22 A22 IADDRESS 22 54 A23 I ADDRESS 23 A23 I ADDRESS 23 55 A24 I ADDRESS 24 A24I ADDRESS 24 56 A25 I ADDRESS 25 A25 I ADDRESS 25 57 RFU RESERVED RFURESERVED 58 +RESET I RESET +RESET I RESET 59 −WAIT O WAIT −WAIT O WAIT60 RFU RESERVED −INPACK O INPUT RESPONSE 61 −REG I ATTRIBUTE −REG IADDRESS 2 MEMORY ABSOLUTE SPACE MEMORY SPACE SELECT 62 BVD2 O BATTERY−SPKR O DIGITAL POWER AUDIO DETECT SIGNAL 63 BVD1 O BATTERY −STSCHG OCARD STATUS POWER CHANGE DETECT 64 D8 I/O DATA 8 D8 I/O DATA 8 65 D9 I/ODATA 9 D9 I/O DATA 9 66 D10 I/O DATA 10 D10 I/O DATA 10 67 −CD2 O CARD−CD2 O DATA DETECT DETECT 68 GND GROUND GND GROUND

[0099] In FIG. 7, numeral 1 a denotes a guide for when the PC card body1 g is inserted into personal computer, described later. Numeral 1 bdenotes a connector for connecting the PC card body 1 g to the personalcomputer. By being connected to the personal computer, the connector 1 bforms a path for supplying the PC card camera 1 with power and a pathfor electric signals sent and received. Numeral 1 c designates a cut-outwhich, when the PC card body 1 g is connected to the personal computer,prevents the PC card body 1 g from being connected in the wrongdirection. Numeral 1 d denotes a base provided on the PC card camera 1.The base 1 d internally accommodates a control circuit for controlling avideo camera unit 2, described later, an image-signal processing circuitfor processing an image signal outputted by the video camera unit 2, anID signal circuit and a configuration signal circuit.

[0100] The video camera unit 2 has an optical lens unit and an areasensor comprising a photoelectric converting-type solid-state imagesensing device. Numeral 3 denotes a universal joint for holding thevideo camera unit 2 on the PC card body 1 g in such a manner that theangular position thereof can be adjusted freely.

[0101] The PC card camera 1 can be connected to a personal computer orto a portable information device such as a personal digital assistant.

[0102]FIG. 8 is an explanatory view showing a state in which the PC cardcamera 1 is connected to a personal computer. Numeral 4 denotes anotebook-type personal computer, which has a slot 4 a provided in itsside for the purpose of connecting the PC card. The PC card camera 1 isconnected to the slot 4 a.

[0103]FIG. 9 is an explanatory view showing a state in which the PC cardcamera 1 is connected to a personal digital assistant. Numeral 14denotes the personal digital assistant, which is provided with a slot 14a for connecting the PC card camera 1. The PC card camera 1 is connectedto the slot 14 a in the same manner as illustrated in FIG. 8.

[0104] The operation and functions of the PC card camera 1 will bedescribed next. When the PC card camera 1 is inserted into the slot 4 aof the personal computer 4 as shown in FIG. 8, the connector 1 b of thePC card camera 1 is connected to the connector (not shown) of thepersonal computer 4 in a state in which the video camera unit 2 anduniversal joint 3 are exposed.

[0105] When the PC card camera 1 receives a supply of power from thepersonal computer 4 via the connector 1 b (Pin Nos. 15, 51), the PC-cardcamera 1 sends an ID signal and a configuration signal to the personalcomputer. Upon receiving these signals, the personal computer 4 iscapable of recognizing the output signal of the PC card camera 1 as aprescribed image signal. An image accepted by an operation command fromthe personal computer can be displayed on a display screen, it can besaved in memory in the form of a file or it can be sent to anotherpersonal computer connected via a line.

[0106] Since the video camera unit 2 is supported by the universal joint3 in such a manner that its angular position is freely adjustable, animage having the optimum angle can be read in by angularly adjusting thelens of the video camera unit 2 with one's finger. For example, when aphotographic image of the face of the operator of the personal computer4 is entered, the position of the camera relative to the operatordiffers depending upon where the PC card camera is connected to thepersonal computer. This makes it necessary to adjust the optimum angle.

[0107]FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the flow of signals in a casewhere the PC card camera 1 is used as a video camera upon beingconnected to the personal digital assistant. In FIG. 10, PC representsthe personal computer. The other blocks indicate the various functionsof the PC card camera 1. Specifically, I/F represents an interface forinterfacing the personal computer, i.e., for the sending and receivingof the ID signal, configuration signal, control signal and image signalbetween the video camera unit 2 and the personal computer 4. SG denotesa circuit which sends the ID number of the video camera unit 2 and theconfiguration signal to the personal computer 4. CONT is a controlcircuit, TG a timing generator, CCD a photoelectric converting-typesolid-state area sensor, MEM a memory for the sensor signal, A/D ananalog/digital converter and BUF an image buffer circuit.

[0108] The operation of the PC card camera 1 will now be described. Whenthe interface I/F of the PC card camera 1 is connected, to the personalcomputer PC, a card controller on the side of the personal computer PCreads the ID signal of the PC card camera 1 out of the circuit SG. Whenthe personal computer 4 reads out the ID signal from the circuit SG andthe settings of the card camera indicated in the configuration signal,the personal computer 4 determines whether the connected PC card camera1 is a video camera and reads in attributes of the image information,such as whether the image is monochromatic or color, the number ofpixels horizontally, the number of pixel vertically and the number ofgrays, etc.

[0109] Next, when an operation command for operating the personalcomputer 4 enters the controller CONT, the latter instructs the timinggenerator TG to reset the sensor CCD, designate the storage time andperform a signal transfer from the sensor CCD to the memory MEM. Thesignal stored in the memory MEM is sent to the A/D converter A/D inresponse to the indication from the timing generator TG, the signal isconverted to a digital signal having the prescribed gray level, and thedigital signal is transferred to the image buffer BUF. The digital imagesignal in the image buffer BUF is sent to the personal computer PC viathe interface I/F in response to the indication from the controllerCONT, and the digital signal is displayed, saved as a file ortransferred to another personal computer (not shown).

[0110]FIG. 11 is a sectional view showing the structure of the universaljoint 3. As shown in FIG. 11, the universal joint 3 includes fouroptical lenses 2 a, 2 b, 3 c and 2 e, an area sensor 2 e, a board 2 f onwhich the area sensor 2 e has been mounted, and a flexible lead wire 2gconnected to the board 2 f for making a connection to the image signalprocessing circuit in the base of the PC card camera 1. A housing 3 afor the video camera unit 2 comprises a lens barrel 3 aa holding thelenses 2 a, 2 b, 2 c, 2 d, and a spherical portion 3 ab. An opening 3 acis provided part of the spherical portion 3 ab.

[0111] Numeral 3 b is a seat on the stationary side of the universaljoint 3 freely rotatably supporting the spherical portion 3 ab of thehousing 3 a. One side of the seat 3 b is connected to the base id of thePC card camera 1 by means not illustrated. The interior of a flatplate-shaped portion 3ba is provided with an opening 3 bb for receivingthe lead wire 2 g.

[0112] Numeral 3 c denotes a leaf spring secured to the flatplate-shaped portion 3 ba by means not illustrated. The leaf spring 3 cresiliently urges the spherical portion 3 a 2 of the housing 3 a towardthe seat 3 b. The board 2 f is secured to the housing 3 a by means notillustrated. Numeral 3 ca denotes the tip of the leaf spring 3 c, whichserves also as a rotation stopper of the video camera unit 2.

[0113] The functions and operation of the video camera unit 2 anduniversal joint 3 will be described next. The optical lens unit composedof the four single lenses 2 a, 2 b, 2 c, 2 d is a wide-angle lens whichdoes not require positional adjustment of the focal point. The lens unitis capable of forming the image of a subject, located at a distancebetween infinity and 30 cm, on the area sensor 2 e at a predeterminedresolution.

[0114] The image signal from the area sensor 2 e is sent to the imagesignal processing circuit, which is mounted on the base 1 d of the PCcard camera 1, via the board 2 f and the flexible lead wire 2 gconnected to the board 2 f. The spherical portion 3 ab of the-housing 3a of video camera unit 2 is urged resiliently against the seat 3 b onthe stationary side of the universal joint 3 by means of the leaf spring3 c. As a result, the lens barrel 3 aa can be moved with ease upon beinggrasped by one's fingers.

[0115] Upon being moved, the lens barrel 3 aa is held in position byfrictional resistance produced by the pressing force of the leaf spring3 c. Accordingly, in the arrangement described above, the lens barrel 3aa is capable of having its angular position adjusted freely withrespect to the seat 3 b.

[0116] The housing 3 a is provided with the opening 3 ac. The flexiblelead wire 2 g is connected to the board 2 f through the opening 3 bb inthe seat 3 b and the opening 3 ac in the housing 3 a. The housing 3 acan be turned freely until the outside cylinder of the lens barrel 3 aaabuts against the tip 3 ca of the leaf spring 3 c. Accordingly, if thesize of the opening 3 ac is set to a size commensurate with the turningrange and the flexible lead wire 2 g is provided with enough slack toallow the housing to be turned within the above-mentioned range, thelead wire will not develop excessive stress and will be severed even ifthe lens barrel 3 aa is turned within the aforesaid range. Thus, theangular position of the lens unit can be adjusted by the universal joint3.

[0117] In accordance with the PC card camera 1 of this embodiment, it ispossible to realize a miniature, light-weight and highly portable videocamera that can be carried about in one's pocket, by way of example.Furthermore, by making use of the power supply of the personal computer4, a separate power supply need not be provided. In addition, theconnection to the slot 4 a of the personal computer 4 can be made by asingle touch. Moreover, adjustment of the image pick-up angle can beperformed manually in simple fashion.

[0118] <Modification of First Embodiment>

[0119] Next, a modification of the PC card camera according to the firstembodiment will be described. FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing theexternal appearance of a PC card camera according to a modification ofthe first embodiment. Numeral 21 denotes a PC card camera, 22 a videocamera unit and 25 a flexible lead wire. The distance and angularposition of the video camera unit 22 relative to PC card body 21 g canbe adjusted freely.

[0120] The video camera unit 22 has a base 22 k provided with a magneticattracting plate or suction attracting plate so that the video cameraunit 22 can be set at a position remote from the PC card body 21 g. Theflexible lead wire 25 may employ a composite tube or the like to providea high shape-retaining capability, and the video camera unit 22 can beset up independently of the PC card camera body 21 g.

[0121] <Advantages of the First Embodiment>

[0122] In accordance with the PC card camera 1 of the first embodiment,it is possible to realize a miniature, light-weight and highly portablevideo camera that can be carried about in one's pocket. In addition, aseparate power supply need not be provided for the PC card camera. Theconnection to the slot 4 a of the personal computer 4 can be made by asingle touch, and adjustment of the image pick-up angle can be performedmanually in simple fashion.

[0123] With the card camera of the above-described embodiment, theoptical lens unit of the video camera unit 22 is of the wide-angle,fixed-focus type. As a result, a lens focusing mechanism can beeliminated. By using aspherical lenses, the number of lens componentscan be reduced.

[0124] By limiting the aspect ratio of the area sensor to a range of1:2˜1:1 and limiting the number of sensor pixels to less than 100,000 toreduce the size of the sensor itself, the load upon the image signalprocessing circuit is reduced, thus providing a PC card camera which isas small and as light in weight as possible. Accordingly, the opticallens unit, the sensor unit and the image signal processing unit areminiaturized, thus providing a card-size camera that can be carriedabout in one's pocket.

[0125] Furthermore, the angular position of the video camera unit 2mounted on the base 1 d of the PC card body 1 g can be freely adjustedwith respect to the PC card body 1 g, namely the personal computer onwhich the PC card body 1 g has been mounted. Accordingly, when the PCcard camera 1 is connected to the personal computer 4 and an image isread in from the camera, an image having the appropriate size and theproper image pick-up angle can be read in without moving the personalcomputer.

[0126] When the PC card camera 1 is connected to the personal computer 4and the connected PC card camera 1 functions as a video camera, the cardcamera has a function for sending a recognizable ID signal and aconfiguration signal through which it is possible to discriminate theattributes of the output signal, such as whether it is a color ormonochromatic signal, the aspect ratio, the number of pixels and thegray level. Accordingly, when the PC card camera 1 is connected to thepersonal computer 4, the ID signal and the configuration signal are sentto the side of the personal computer in response to a command from thepersonal computer so that the PC card camera can be operated as a videocamera by plug-and-play without special driver software.

[0127] <Second Embodiment>

[0128] A second has as its object the provision of a miniature,high-performance image input unit, i.e., a camera, capable of entering amoving picture into a computer simply and inexpensively. As in themodification of the first embodiment described above, the camera portionand the main body are separate from each other and are connected by acable.

[0129]FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the arrangement of a camera for apersonal computer according to a second embodiment of the invention.

[0130] In FIG. 13, numeral 101 denotes a camera head arranged so as topoint toward a subject. The camera head 101 is integrated with aphotographic lens 102 and a sensor element (not shown) such as a CCD orX-Y address sensor for electrically converting light from the subject toan electric signal. The light from the subject impinges upon the sensorelement through the photographic lens 102.

[0131] Numeral 103 denotes a connector provided on a card-shaped base104. The base 104 is internally provided with an interface 107 forsending an image signal to a personal computer (not shown). The base 104is capable of being inserted into a card socket (not shown) provided inthe side of the personal computer. The socket in the side of thepersonal computer has a connector (not shown), and the arrangement issuch that this connector and the connector 103 on the base 104 can bejoined.

[0132] Numeral 105 denotes a connector and 106 a cable which connectsthe camera head 101 and the base 104. The cable 106 is connected to thebase 104 by the connector 105.

[0133]FIG. 14A is a block diagram showing the construction of theinterface 107 incorporated in the card-shaped base 104. Numeral 201 inFIG. 14A denotes a connector on the side of the camera head. Thisconnector corresponds to the connector 105 in FIG. 13. Numeral 202denotes a timing controller which generates a clock for driving thesensor element (not shown) incorporated in the camera head 101 and asynchronizing signal necessary for reading out an image. An instructioncontroller 203 generates a control signal for designating the operatingphase in the sensor element. An A/D converter 204 converts an analogimage signal, which has been obtained from the sensor element, into adigital signal. A ROM 205 stores the attribute information of the card.Numeral 206 denotes a command register for receiving instructions fromthe personal computer and a status register which indicates the statusof the card. A FIFO-type memory 207 temporarily stores the image datathat has been converted to digital data by the A/D converter 204.Numeral 208 denotes an address/data bus, and numeral 209 designates aconnector on the side of the personal computer. This corresponds to theconnector 103 in FIG. 13.

[0134]FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing the construction of the camerahead 101. This illustrates the constitution of the internal area sensorelement. A logic unit 301 receives externally applied drive pulses andgenerates timing pulses necessary for operation. Numeral 302 denotes asensor serving as a photoelectric transducer, 303 a memory for storingthe electric charge obtained by the sensor 302, and 304 an analogcircuit such as an amplifier for entering the potential from the memory303.

[0135] Further, numeral 305 denotes a terminal which supplies the logicunit 301 with a clock YCLK, and numerals 306, 307, 308 designatesynchronous-type serial-communication terminals for sending operationcommands to the logic unit 301. The terminals 306, 307 and 308 are for achip-select signal CSY, a communication clock signal SCLK and adata-line signal MOSI. Numeral 309 denotes the input terminal of a clocksignal YV for transfer of a vertical-line shift transistor in the areasensor, numeral 310 denotes the input terminal of a clock signal YH fortransfer of a horizontal-line shift transistor in the area sensor,numeral 312 denotes the terminal of a reference power supply WC foranalog operation, and number 313 designates a ground terminal. Numeral314 denotes an analog-signal output terminal. The cable 106inputs/outputs signals on the terminals 305˜314 to and from thecard-shaped base 104.

[0136] Tables 1 and 2 for the first embodiment illustrate the pin arraysof the connector 209 on the side of the personal computer.

[0137] The operation of the above-mentioned area sensor will bedescribed using the pulse timing chart of FIG. 16. The clock YCLK onterminal 305 in FIG. 15 decides the basic operation of the logic unit301 and is outputted at all times. In the standby phase, data (“0”)indicative of this phase is transmitted through the serial-data lineMOSI in conformity with the communication clock SCLK.

[0138] The transfer clock YV for the vertical-line shift register isgenerated for the number of pixels in the vertical direction, whereuponthe logic unit 301 is reset. In the clamp reset phase, a constant biaspotential is applied to all sensors, then sensors are reset successivelyin units of one line in the horizontal direction in the ensuing transferreset phase. At this time one YV pulse acts upon the pixels of one line.Immediately after this operation, light incident upon each sensor startsto appear as the potential of the sensor element.

[0139] During the storage phase, the light incident upon the sensorcauses the potential within the sensor to rise in proportion to theamount of this incident light. In the normal transfer phase, theelectric charge produced within the sensor is transferred to the memory303. In the normal read phase, the charged that has accumulated in thememory 303 is read out in successive fashion. At this time one line inthe horizontal direction is selected whenever one pulse of the signal YVis generated, and the electric charge is read out whenever one pulse ofthe signal YH is generated in the selected line.

[0140] The charge read out is delivered from the output terminal 314through the analog circuit 304. A signal ATDrg is a signal which, whenlogical “1”, informs of the timing at which the electric charge isoutputted. This signal is multiplexed with CSY and shares the sameterminal. An open drain is furnished with a pull-up resistance at theoutput terminal for the signal ATDrg.

[0141] Operation for a case where the aforementioned camera of thisembodiment is controlled from the personal computer will now bedescribed with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 17.

[0142] Steps S1˜S3 indicate an operation performed whenever a card isnewly inserted into the slot of the personal computer. Specifically,when the signal CD (Pin No. 36 in Table 2) changes from “0” to “1”, thepersonal computer performs a resetting operation with regard to the cardat step S1 [i.e., “1” logic is established at the terminal RESET (PinNo. 58)]. CIS (Card Information Structure) is read out at step S2. Inthis embodiment, CIS is stored beforehand in the ROM 205 shown in FIG.14. If the CIS is. indicative of the type of memory or of an I/O card,there is information such as configuration method and interrupt level.At step S3, the personal computer writes a configuration index in a CCOR(Card Configuration Option Register), whereby designation of utilizableresources such as IO base address and an interrupt number is performedon the card side based upon the CIS obtained at step S2.

[0143] The steps S4˜S6 are specific to the operation of the camera ofthis embodiment. Theses steps represent an operation for writing data inthe command/status register 206 of FIG. 14A in order to set the storagetime and select the amplifier gain or amplification characteristic ofthe analog circuit 304.

[0144] The writing of data in the register is carried out through PinNos. 1˜6 and 30˜32 shown in Table 1. The content of the command/statusregister 206 shown in FIG. 14A is illustrated in FIGS. 14B and 14C. Thecommand/status register 206 includes a control/status register and adata register, as shown in Table, 3, as well as a gain setting registerand a storage-time setting register, as shown in Table 4.

[0145] The control/status register controls the operation of the camera.Each of the bits of the register will now be described. ComBusy (D7)indicates whether a command from the host is accepted; DataRDY (D6)indicates whether image readout is possible or not; 1stLine (D5)indicates the first. line of one frame; FIFORSTW (D4), FIFORSTR (D3) arefor controlling read reset and write reset of a FIFO for image data;INTEN (D2) is a bit for allowing output of an interrupt signal; andStart (D1) is a bit for starting image readout. With regard to D4, D3,D2, access is not possible from the host side; access is possible onlyfrom the control microcomputer.

[0146] The data register is for reading out image data; eight-bits ofimage data are obtained.

[0147] Next, in Table 4, the gain setting register is a register fordesignating the gain or amplification characteristic of the analogcircuit 304. As for the gain, a linear output and a non-linear outputwhich are increased by 5, 10, 20, 40 can be set manually orautomatically. The storage-time setting register is for setting storagetime in the sensor.

[0148] At step S4 in FIG. 17, whether or not a command from the host isaccepted is verified depending upon whether the ComBusy bit of D7 is “0”or “1”. Next, the program proceeds to step S5, where each register isset. Steps S5, S6 are repeated until the writing of data in allregisters ends. The reason for verifying that the bit of ComBusy (PinNo. 16) of status register 206 is “0” is that this signal becoming 0means that the register 206 is capable of being accessed.

[0149] Image storage and readout are performed at steps S7˜S11. At themoment Startbit in the control register becomes 1, the start of thestorage operation for the sensor is designated at step S7. Thisoperation is carried out at the moment there is a transition from thestandby phase to the normal transfer phase shown in the timing chart ofFIG. 16. When the normal transfer ends on the sensor side, one line ofnormal read is performed. In order to perform this for one line, onepulse of the YV signal is sent and then the ensuing YH signal is sentfor several pixels on one line.

[0150] As a result, the image signal obtained from the output terminal314 is converted to a digital signal by the A/D converter 204 of FIG.14A and then the digital signal is written in the memory 207. When oneline of data is written in the memory 207, the DataRDY bit of statusregister 206 is made “1”. The control software on the side of thepersonal computer accepts the fact that the DataRDY bit has becomes “1”(step S8), one line of data is read out of the memory 207 at step S9 andthe DataRDY bit is made “0” at step S10 upon the conclusion of readout.Meanwhile, the timing controller 202 outputs the next YV signal and YHsignal and stores the second line of image data in the memory 207.Thereafter at the moment the DataRDY bit becomes “0”, it is made “1”again. Operation is the same as set forth above from the third lineonward.

[0151] The aforesaid single readout need not be performed every line.Depending upon the number of pixels of one line and the capacity of thememory 207, it is possible to perform the readout every 10 lines, by wayof example. As a result, it is possible to reduce the number of timespolling of the DataRDY bit is performed.

[0152] The timing controller 202 (FIG. 14) can be replaced by a pulsegenerating circuit and a circuit, which has a port control function,incorporated within a single-chip microcomputer. Similarly, theinstruction controller 203 can be replaced by a synchronous-type serialcommunication circuit incorporated within a single-chip microcomputer.Further, in a case where the image size is small and the frame rate islow, the A/D converter 204 can be fully replaced by one incorporated ina single-chip microcomputer. Accordingly, the function of the interfaceshown in FIG. 14A can be replaced by a single LSI.

[0153] With regard to the operation of the second embodiment, the imagesignal carried by the cable 106 is not sent together with asynchronizing signal that is repeated at a fixed period, as in themanner of an NTSC signal. The image signal is sent from the camera head101 in conformity with a synchronizing signal outputted from the side ofthe interface circuit as necessary. The interface circuit 107 convertsthe transmitted image signal from an analog signal to a digital signaland stores the digital signal in an image memory. On the side of thepersonal computer, the image signal is read through the interface.

[0154] Accordingly, a moving picture can be entered into a computersimply and inexpensively and it is possible to realize a miniature,high-performance camera for computers.

[0155] In accordance with the camera of the second embodiment, asdescribed above, only the sensor unit is mounted on the camera head,thereby miniaturizing the camera head so that camera head will notinterfere with operations even if it is placed on the monitor screen ofthe computer. As a result, when an application such as a televisionconference or TV telephone is executed, the camera can be placed nearthe position at which the image of the other party's face is displayed,thereby making it possible to readily achieve coincidence of line ofsight.

[0156] As a result, a moving picture can be entered into a computersimply and inexpensively and it is possible to realize ahigh-performance camera for computers.

[0157] Further, by providing an interface located inside a card-shapedbase with a register for exchanging data with a computer, a memory forstoring image data, means for generating a clock, a synchronizing signaland a control signal for driving a sensor and an A/D converter forconverting an analog signal from the sensor into a digital signal, thecard can be inserted into and withdrawn from the computer with ease.

[0158] Furthermore, by adopting an arrangement in which the image signalfrom the camera head is outputted only when the synchronizing signalfrom the interface is generated, it is possible to dispense with theconventional NTSC-signal generating circuit.

[0159] By employing a single-chip microcomputer to realize thegenerating means which generates the clock, synchronizing signal andcontrol signal for driving the sensor and the A/D converter forconverting the analog signal from the sensor to a digital signal, thenumber of elements can be reduced and it is possible to incorporatefunctions having additional value by relying upon the software of thesingle-chip microcomputer.

[0160] By using a FIFO-type memory as the memory which stores the imagedata, address control is no longer necessary and the scale of thecircuitry can be reduced.

[0161] <Third Embodiment>

[0162] The first and second embodiments relates to a card camera mainlyfor sending video. A card camera according to third and fourthembodiments sends audio as well as video.

[0163]FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of aPC card 401 camera according to a third embodiment. This card is of thetype in line with TYPE II of the PCMCIA specifications. FIG. 19 is afront view showing the PC card 401 of FIG. 18 when a camera unit 405 andan earphone 407 have been connected thereto.

[0164] As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, a main connecting unit 402 connectsthe PC card 401 to the main body of a personal computer or the likeserving as a host. A connector 403 connects the camera unit 405 and theearphone 407 to the PC card 401 at one time. A microphone 404 isprovided on the PC card 401 on the end face thereof opposite the mainconnecting unit 402. The details of the camera unit 405 are shown inFIGS. 20A and 20B. A connecting cord 406 connect the connector 403 andthe camera unit 405 and transmits an image signal, clock signal andsynchronizing signal. The cord 406 is a flexible cord the outer surfaceof which is covered with a flexible holding member of the type whichallows the orientation of the camera unit 405 to be changed and fixedmanually.

[0165] The details of the structure of camera unit 405 will be describedwith reference to FIGS. 20A and 20B, which are an external front viewand a sectional view of the principal components, respectively.

[0166] Shown in FIGS. 20A and 20B are a back cover 510, a resilientmember 511, a front cover 520, a lens barrel unit 530, a photographiclens group 531, a focus spacer 540, a sensor 550, a connector receptacle560, a flexible printed circuit board 570, a connector plug 580 and anunlock button 581 for the same plug.

[0167] The lens barrel unit 530 holding the lens group 531 is threadedlyengaged with the focus spacer 540 and turns relative to the spacer sothat a focusing adjustment can be performed. The spacer 540 has a spotfacing 541 which mates with the exterior of the package of sensor 550,which consists of a transparent plastic package. By being brought intoabutting contact with the front face of the package, the spacer effectspositioning along three axes.

[0168] The flexible printed circuit board 570 on which the sensor 550,the connector receptacle 560 and peripheral elements (not shown) aremounted is clamped between the front cover 520 and back cover 510 by theresilient member 511, such as a sponge or rubber sheet, disposed at theback of the sensor in the plane of the board. Thus the board is clampedin the abutting state.

[0169] By providing the back cover 510 and the front cover 520 or theflexible printed circuit board 570 itself with an elastically deformedurging member, the resilient member 511 may be eliminated.

[0170] The connector receptacle 560 that couples with the connector plug580 is surface-mounted on the flexible printed circuit board 570 and ismechanically connected to either the front cover 520 or back cover 510to provide mechanical strength.

[0171]FIG. 21 is a block diagram illustrating the functions of the PCcard 401 according to this embodiment. The portion enclosed by theone-dot chain line is the PC card 401, which has a host interface 422for interfacing a PC bus 421 on the side of the personal computerserving as the host. The host exchanges commands and status with the PCcard 401 and reads out data as well. A controller 423 receives commandsfrom the host, controls the operation of a timing generator 424 andCODEC 430 and controls read/write of an image buffer 425 and audiobuffer 426.

[0172] A timing generator 424 performs reset control and storage-timecontrol of the sensor 550 and signal processor/memory 428 of the cameraunit 405, transfers electric charge from the sensor 550 to the signalprocessor/memory 428 and designates signal processing.

[0173] The image buffer 425 writes in image data after it has beenconverted to digital data and reads image data out of the host throughthe host interface 422. The audio buffer 426 writes in audio data afterA/D conversion and compression, reads audio data out of the host throughthe host interface 422, writes in audio data from the host and deliversthe data to a CODEC 430.

[0174] An image A/D converter 429 converts an analog image signal fromthe signal processor/memory 428 into digital data. The CODEC 430compresses and decompresses the audio signal. A D/A converter 431converts the digital audio data from the CODEC 430 into an analog signaland outputs the analog signal to the earphone 407. An audio A/Dconverter 432 converts the analog signal from the microphone 404 into adigital data. The sensor 550 photoelectrically converts the light thathas passed through the lens group 531 and the stored charge iscontrolled by changing the storage time in response to an input from thetiming generator 424. The signal processor/memory 428 controls gain andknee characteristic and stores the sensor signal.

[0175] Next, a case will be described in which the camera unit 405 andearphone 407 are connected to the PC card 401 constructed as set forthabove, the PC card 401 is connected to the personal computer 410, asshown in FIG. 22, and the apparatus is used to carry out a TV telephoneconversation with a party possessing a similar apparatus.

[0176] In FIG. 22, a notebook-type personal computer 410 has a slot fora PC card of TYPE II in conformity with PCMCIA specifications in theside of the front half of the computer and in the side of rear half. ThePC card 401 having the construction shown in FIG. 19 is inserted intothe slot in the side of the front half, and another PC card (not shown),which makes possible a connection to an ISDN (not shown), is inserted inthe slot of the back half. This PC card is connected to an ISDN line.

[0177] In a case where the user employs this system as a TV telephone,first the camera unit 405 is adjusted so as to point in the direction ofthe user by flexing the connecting cord 406 connected to the PC card401. The earphone 407 is placed in an ear of the user.

[0178] Next, TV telephone software that has already been stored on ahard disk of the notebook-type personal computer 410 is started,whereupon the face 412 of the user picked up by the camera unit 405 isdisplayed on the display 411 of the personal computer 410. If theposition of the image seems to be displaced, the position is adjusted byflexing the connecting cord 406. Next, a call is placed to a party,already registered in the software, with which a TV telephoneconversation is desired. When the called party answers and has madepreparations to establish a state similar to that on the side of theuser, the face 413 of the called party captured by the camera on thecalled party's side is displayed in enlarged form and the face 412 ofthe user is displayed is reduced size, as shown in FIG. 24.

[0179] The voice of the user is picked up by the microphone 404, whichis provided on the end face of the PC card 401 and is externallyvisible, even though the PC card 401 is inserted into the notebookpersonal computer 410. The user's voice is thus transmitted to thecalled party. The voice of the called party is transmitted to the user'sear by the early one 107. The voice is sent and received on one Bchannel of the ISDN line, and the image data is sent and received on theother B channel of the ISDN line. Thus, a TV telephone conversation isestablished with the called party

[0180] In this case what is sent and received need not be only voice andimage data but may also be text or other data.

[0181] By adopting the arrangement described above, the microphone isplaced at a position visible from the outside, even though the PC cardis inserted into the personal computer. This makes it possible to enterthe user's voice. Further, the user need not perform a laboriousoperation to set up the microphone. Since the number of cables is heldto the minimum, portability is excellent and the system is very easy touse. By realizing a TV telephone using a personal computer as theplatform, it is possible to send and receive not only voices and imagesbut also other types of data.

[0182] In the third embodiment, the software for implementing the TVtelephone function is provided on the hard disk of the personalcomputer. However, an arrangement may be adopted in which the softwareis written in a ROM furnished within the PC card 401 and is supplied tothe personal computer from the card 401. If this arrangement is adopted,it will be possible to realize a plug-and-play function in which merelyinserting the PC card 401 into the personal computer automaticallystarts up the software for implementing the TV telephone function.

[0183] <Fourth Embodiment>

[0184]FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a fourth embodiment according to thepresent invention. Numeral 415 denotes a miniature personal informationterminal (PDA, or Personal Digital Assistant), which has a function thatallows the device to be connected to a telephone line in advance so asto make possible the exchange of various data. As shown in FIG. 25, thedevice has only one PC card slot provided in the top thereof. The PCcard 401 according to this invention has the camera unit 405 andearphone 407 connected to it, and the card 401 has been inserted intothe aforementioned slot of the PDA 415. The PDA 415 has a display 416and the minimum required number of buttons 417. The PDA 415 does nothave an internal speaker in order to enhance the portability of thedevice.

[0185] The method in which the system is used is substantially the sameas in the case of the third embodiment. Since a PDA is almost alwaysused by being held in one hand, the orientation of the camera unit 405is decided by moving the PDA.

[0186] By adopting the above-described arrangement, a TV telephonefunction can be realized with ease so long as a device such as the PDAis connectable to a telephone line, even if the PDA does not have aninternal speaker.

[0187] <Features of Third and Fourth Embodiments>

[0188] In accordance with the card camera of the third and fourthembodiments, the card camera has a camera connection unit to which acamera unit is connectable and which is capable of being inserted into ahost device connectable to a communication line such as a telephoneline, and a microphone. As a result, a compact, portable personalcomputer such as a notebook-type personal computer or a personalinformation device such as a PDA can be additionally provided with a TVtelephone function.

[0189] Further, the card camera has a camera connection unit, a speakerconnection unit to which a speaker such as an earphone is capable ofbeing connected, and a microphone. As a result, a compact, portablepersonal computer such as a notebook-type personal computer or apersonal information device such as a PDA not having a speaker can beadditionally provided with a TV telephone function.

[0190] Further, the card camera has a camera connection unit and amicrophone, which is provided on the end face of the card opposite theside thereof that is connected to the computer or PDA. As a result, acompact, portable personal computer such as a notebook-type personalcomputer or a personal information device such as a PDA can beadditionally provided with a TV telephone function in which the numberof connectors and the number of cables are minimized. Since themicrophone is exposed even when the PC card is inserted into thecomputer or PDA, audio can be picked up without problems and a TVtelephone function can be provided while minimizing the numbers ofconnectors and cables.

[0191] Further, the card camera has a camera connection unit, a speakerconnection unit to which a speaker such as an earphone is capable ofbeing connected, and a microphone, which is provided on the end face ofthe card opposite the side thereof that is connected to the host device.As a result, a compact, portable personal computer such as anotebook-type personal computer or a personal information device such asa PDA not having a speaker can be additionally provided with a TVtelephone function in which the number of connectors and the number ofcables are minimized. Since the microphone is exposed even when the PCcard is inserted into the computer or PDA, audio can be picked upwithout problems and a TV telephone function can be provided whileminimizing the numbers of connectors and cables.

[0192] Further, by providing the camera connection unit and the speakerconnection unit on the same portion of the card, connection at a singlelocation is sufficient. This makes it easy to make the connection.

[0193] <Fifth Embodiment>

[0194] Conventionally, when a camera is used in, say, a TV conferencesystem, the camera usually is used upon being fixed to a corner ofmonitor or upon being placed on an independent panning head.

[0195] The camera and the main body of the device which processes theimage data are entirely separate bodies and are connected by aconnecting cable. Consequently, since the camera unit can be mounted ata location that is selectable, the vertical direction of the camera andthe vertical direction of the image can be made to coincide at alltimes.

[0196] However, in a case where the camera is connected to a compactcomputer such as a notebook-type personal computer, palm-top computer ofPDA and image processing is executed, a PC card is inserted into a slotprovided in the side of the compact computer in order to obtain anadditional function such as an image input function, as described in theprevious embodiments. However, the direction of the slot is not uniquelydetermined and differs depending upon the type of machine.

[0197] When a camera having a structure in which the lens is directlyattached to the PC card is used and the image is set so as to be uprightin the case of a compact computer in which the PC card slot is locatedon the right-hand side, the image will be upside-down if image pick-upis attempted in the same direction using a compact computer of adifferent type in which the slot is located on the left-hand side. Thisproblem arises not only with a PC card but also with a miniature camera.

[0198] With the PC camera card of the fifth embodiment, the imagepick-up camera unit performs image capture by being pointed in thedirection of photography. Even if the orientation of the upper portionof the apparatus is unnatural, image data having the correct verticaldirection can be outputted to the connected PC card by pointing thecamera unit in the direction of photography.

[0199]FIGS. 26A and 26B are illustrative views showing the constructionof the camera unit according to the fifth embodiment of the invention.FIG. 26A is an external front view and FIG. 26B a sectional view of theprincipal components.

[0200] Shown in FIGS. 26A and 26B are camera unit 601, a back cover 610,a resilient member 611, a front cover 620, a lens barrel unit 630, aphotographic lens group 631, a focus spacer 640, an image sensor 650, aconnector receptacle 660, a flexible printed circuit board 670, and LEDindicators 730 placed at four locations in this embodiment. The LEDindicator that comes to be located above the image is lit. Numeral 740denotes a switch plate for urging a switch actuator 750.

[0201] The lens barrel unit 630 holding the lens group 631 is threadedlyengaged with the focus spacer 640 and turns relative to the spacer sothat a focusing adjustment can be performed. The focus spacer 640 has aspot facing 641 which mates with the exterior of the package of imagesensor 650, which consists of a transparent plastic package. By beingbrought into abutting contact with the front face of the package, thespacer effects positioning along three axes.

[0202] The flexible printed circuit board 670 on which the sensor 650,the connector receptacle 660 and peripheral elements (not shown) aremounted is clamped between the front cover 620 and back cover 610 viathe resilient member 611, such as a sponge or rubber sheet, disposed atthe back of the sensor in the plane of the board. Thus the board isclamped in the abutting state. By providing the cover members or theflexible printed circuit board itself with an elastically deformedurging member, the resilient member 611 may be eliminated.

[0203]FIG. 27 is a perspective view showing that a solid-state imagesensing device according to this embodiment is to be loaded in anotebook-type personal computer. Shown in FIG. 27 are the camera unit601, a connection unit 602, a PC card 603 such as one in conformity withPCMCIA or JEIDA specifications, and a notebook-type personal computer604.

[0204]FIG. 28A is a block diagram showing an embodiment of thesolid-state image sensing device. This diagram will be referred to inorder to describe the operation of the device.

[0205] An image sensor 650 accepts an image and performs a photoelectricconversion of the image. The image signal entered by the image sensor650 is sent to an image processor/memory 850. The signalprocessor/memory 850 controls the gain and knee characteristic andstores the image signal. A timing generator 810 performs reset controland storage-time control of the image sensor and memory, transferselectric charge-from the image sensor to the memory and designatescontrol of signal processing.

[0206] An A/D converter 840 converts an analog image signal from thesignal processor/memory 850 into digital data. The image data digitallyconverted by the A/D converter 840 is written in an image buffer 830.

[0207] The photographer presses any one of the four switch plates 740surrounding the lens. Each switch plate 740 is provided with theaforementioned switch actuator 750. When a specific one of the switchplates 740 is pressed, the actuator 750 operatively associated with itis actuated. A signal from this actuator plate is sent to an addressgenerator 860 via a switch circuit 700 (FIG. 28A) which decides thedirection of photography. The address generator 860 decides the order inwhich image data that has been written in the image buffer 830 is readout. The image data can be read out in an upright attitude or in anyother orientation depending upon the decision made.

[0208] More specifically, FIG. 28B illustrates a case in which thecamera is turned upside-down so that the face of the observer is imagedupside-down. In this case, the image of the face of the observer isstored in the image buffer 830 in the manner shown in FIG. 28B. Thephotographer presses switch 740 c. When this is done, the addressgenerator 860 generates a readout sequence shown at 880. As a result,the inverted image of the face is sent to the personal computer as anupright image.

[0209] The image data read out is sent to a host interface 820. Thenotebook-type personal computer (the host) connected to the PC bus bythe interface 820 performs an exchange of command/status with the cameraunit and reads out data via the interface 820.

[0210] A controller 800 receives commands from the host, controls theoperation of the timing generator 810 and the same as that of the cameraof the fifth embodiment.

[0211]FIGS. 29A, 29B are explanatory views showing the construction of acamera unit according to a sixth embodiment of the invention FIG. 29A isan external front view and FIG. 20B a sectional view of the principalcomponents. FIG. 30 is a sectional view taken along line Z-Z Of FIG.29B. Components identical with or corresponding to those of the fifthembodiment are designated by like reference characters.

[0212] Shown in FIGS. 29A, 29B and FIG. 30 are a camera unit 601, a backcover 610, a central cover 930, a resilient member 611, a front cover620, a lens barrel unit 630, a photographic lens group 631, a focusspacer 640, an image sensor 650, a connector receptacle 660 and aflexible printed circuit board 670.

[0213] Numeral 900 denotes a proximity sensor, 910 a sector-shapedrotating pendulum a portion of the circumference of which has been cutaway, and 911 a rotary shaft. A sector-shaped portion 912 of thependulum is formed as an integral part of the shaft 911 and consists ofa material sensed by the proximity sensor 900. A bearing 920 allows theshaft 911 to turn smoothly. LED indicators 730 placed at four locationsin this embodiment. The LED indicator that comes to be located above theimage is lit.

[0214] The lens barrel unit 630 holding the lens group 631 is threadedlyengaged with the focus spacer 640 and turns relative to the spacer sothat a focusing adjustment can be performed. The focus spacer 640 hasthe spot facing 641 which mates with the exterior of the package ofsensor 650, which consists of a transparent plastic package. By beingbrought into abutting contact with the front. face of the package, thespacer effects positioning along three axes.

[0215] The flexible printed circuit board 670 on which the sensor 650,the connector receptacle 660 and peripheral elements (not shown) aremounted is clamped between the front cover 620 and central cover 930 bythe resilient member 611, such as a sponge or rubber sheet, disposed atthe back of the image sensor 650 in the plane of the board. Thus theboard is clamped in the abutting state. By providing the cover membersor the flexible printed circuit board itself with an elasticallydeformed urging member, the resilient member 611 may be eliminated.

[0216] The state in which the camera of the sixth embodiment is insertedinto the notebook-type personal computer is the same as that of thefifth embodiment. Shown in FIG. 27 are the camera unit 601, theconnection unit 602, the PC card 603 such as one in conformity withPCMCIA or JEIDA specifications, and the notebook-type personal computer604.

[0217]FIG. 31 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of thesolid-state image sensing device. Components identical with orcorresponding to those of the fifth embodiment are designated by likereference characters. This diagram will be referred to in order todescribe the operation of the device.

[0218] The image sensor 650 accepts an image and performs aphotoelectric conversion of the image. The image signal entered by theimage sensor 650 is sent to the image processor/memory 850. The signalprocessor/memory 850 controls the gain and knee characteristic andstores the image signal. The timing generator 810 performs reset controland storage-time control of the image sensor and memory, transferselectric charge from the image sensor to the memory and designatescontrol of signal processing.

[0219] The A/D converter 840 converts the analog image signal from thesignal processor/memory 850 into digital data. The image data digitallyconverted by the A/D converter 840 is written in the image buffer 830.

[0220] At times other than when image pick-up is performed with thecamera in a vertical attitude, the rotating pendulum 910 always assumesa certain orientation in response to the lens being pointed at thesubject for the purpose of image capture, and any one of the fourproximity sensors 900 is capable of sensing a position on the outercircumference of the sector-shaped portion 912. The signal indicative ofthe direction sensed decides the order in which the image data, whichhas been written in the image buffer 830 by the address generator 860,is read out of the buffer. The image data can be read out in an uprightattitude or in any other orientation depending upon the decision made.The read image data is sent to the host interface 820. The notebook-typepersonal computer (the host) connected to the PC bus by the interface820 performs an exchange of command/status with the camera unit andreads out data via the interface 820.

[0221] A controller 800 receives commands from the host, controls theoperation of the timing generator 810 and controls read/write of theimage buffer 830.

[0222] In this embodiment, it has been described that the image is sentin the upright attitude. If necessary, however, transmission of theimage on its side or in an upside-down attitude can be carried out bychanging the address generated-by the address generator 860. The numberof proximity sensors 900 that construct an orientation sensor 710 isfour in this embodiment. However, the number of these proximity sensorsis not limited to four.

[0223] <Effects of the Sixth Embodiment>

[0224] One effect of the sixth embodiment constructed as set forth aboveis as follows: Sensor means for sensing the vertical direction byutilizing the force of gravity is formed as an integral part of thecamera for image capture, and the order in which the captured image isread out is changed based upon the sensed information. This makes itpossible to supply an image having any orientation irrespective of theorientation of the camera.

[0225] A second effect is that by adopting a structure in which thecamera unit and orientation sensing means are connected to a PC card, itis possible to supply an image in any orientation irrespective of theorientation of the slot in which the PC card is inserted.

[0226] A third effect is that the photographer is capable of beingnotified, by indicating means such as lamps during imaging, whichdirection coincides with the top side of an image.

[0227] A fourth effect is that the sector-shaped pendulum, whichnotifies the photographer by indicating means such as lamps duringimaging which direction coincides with the top side of an image, tiltsowing to the force of gravity and the direction of this inclination issensed by a plurality of sensing means disposed about thecircumferential portion. This makes it possible to change the order inwhich an image captured by the camera unit is read out, i.e., to changethe orientation of the image.

[0228] Thus, in accordance with the fifth and sixth embodiments, even ifthe orientation of the upper portion of the apparatus is unnatural,image data having the correct vertical direction can be outputted to theconnected PC card by pointing the camera unit in the direction ofphotography. In addition, reliability can be enhanced and cost reducedbecause of the small number of parts.

[0229] <Seventh Embodiment>

[0230] A seventh embodiment of the invention will now be described. Theseventh embodiment makes it possible to achieve coincidence of line ofsight between two parties in a conversation in a case where one partyconverses with the computer of another party in on a real-time basis.

[0231]FIG. 32 is a schematic view showing an image communicationapparatus according to a seventh embodiment of the invention. Componentsidentical with or corresponding to those of the prior art in FIG. 5 aredesignated by like reference characters.

[0232] In FIG. 32, numeral 1210 denotes a mechanical portion (theso-called camera unit) through which light cannot pass, and number 1211denotes a camera lens unit. Also shown are the monitor 1120, the monitordisplay screen 1121, the image 1122 of the other party to communication,the operator's own image 1123, the computer 1130 constructing thecommunication apparatus, the keyboard 1131 and the connecting cord 1100.

[0233] A communication extension card (not shown) has been inserted intothe computer 1130, which has been connected to a communication line suchas a PSTN, an ISDN or a LAN, etc. Image communication software has beenloaded in the computer 1130, and the arrangement, which has beenassembled so as to be suitable for image communication, is well known.

[0234] The camera unit 1210 is fixedly attached to the monitor screen insuch a manner that part of the screen is hidden from view. By thusplacing the camera unit 1210 within the confines of the monitor displayscreen, the distance between the other party's image 1122 and the cameralens unit 1211 is made shorter than in a case where the camera unit isplaced on the top of the housing of the monitor 1120 outside the screenin the manner shown in FIG. 5 according to the prior art. As a result,parallax is reduced over that of the prior art and approximatecoincidence of lines of sight is achieved. In this case, there is lessof a disagreeable sensation when the parties are face to face if theposition at which the camera 1210 is fixed is set so as to give priorityto a reduction in horizontal parallax over a reduction in verticalparallax.

[0235] In other words, if the lens unit 1211 is placed on the verticalcenter line of the other party's image (directly above or below theimage on the screen), horizontal parallax is eliminated and substantialcoincidence of lines of sight is achieved, though this depends to someextent upon the camera field angle or image display magnification.Satisfactory results are obtained in practice with an inexpensivearrangement that does not use a half-mirror.

[0236] In FIG. 33B, the camera unit 1210 is so arranged that the lensunit 1211 is contiguous to the outermost edge 1210 c of the camera unit.Furthermore, the lens unit 1211 is made adjacent to a side 1210 c thatis opposite the cord 1100. Four sides (1210 a, 1210 b, 1210 c, 1210 d)define the outermost shape of the camera unit. By virtue of thisarrangement, the cord 1100 can be led away from the monitor image withease. Furthermore, the lens unit 1211 is placed as close as possible tothe other party's image 1122 with the lens being moved in from the headside of the image 1122 to minimize the portion of the image that will behidden from view. As a result, regardless of the fact that camera unit1210, namely the non-transparent mechanical portion, is placed in closeproximity to the image 1122 on the monitor 1120, any unpleasantsensation caused by this is mitigated and it is possible to effectivelyeliminate such a sensation by approximate coincidence of lines of sightat the time of face to face conversation with respect to the screen.

[0237] In a case where different image communication software is used orthe monitor size or display resolution are different, the displaypositions and forms of the sent and received images will differ with acommunication apparatus using a general-purpose computer as in theseventh embodiment. Furthermore, even if the software is the same butthere are a plurality of display modes and the prevailing mode ischanged over (as when there is a changeover between a mode forsimultaneous display of sent and received images and a mode fordisplaying only the received image), or if there is a changeover betweenan enlarged image or a reduced image, or if a window is moved by anoperation within a window in a multiple-window environment, the displayposition or form will be different. In such case it will be necessary tomove the camera suitably in conformity with the other party's image thatis shifted.

[0238] The camera apparatus of the seventh embodiment is provided withfixing means capable of releasing the camera from the display screen andof re-fixing the camera after the camera has been moved. The selectionof the fixing means is made depending upon the type of monitor, itsconstruction and the state of surface treatment. As will be describedlater, however, almost all presently available monitors can be dealtwith by adopting an arrangement in which the camera unit 1210 employs asuction-cup member (1301 in FIG. 34) or adhesive member (1402 in FIG.35).

[0239] In a case where the fixing method uses the adhesive member 1402,it is possible to fix the camera even on the lenticular lens surface ofa projection television of the back-projection type. Portability isenhanced as well.

[0240] In an image communication apparatus using a general-purposecomputer of the kind used in the seventh embodiment, there are manycases where the camera is unnecessary when the computer is used in theordinary manner for purposes other than image communication. In suchcases the camera unit 1210 need only be removed from the screen. If thefixing means is of the readily releasable type described above, thecamera need only be released from the fixed state and removed from themonitor 1120. Anyone can perform this operation without specialinstructions. Such fixing means is extremely effective in a case where asystem using an inexpensive personal computer is constructed to providean image communication apparatus targeted broadly on general users.

[0241]FIG. 34 illustrates an arrangement in which the suction cup 1301is provided on the back surface of the lens unit 1211 as fixing means.

[0242]FIG. 35 shows the external arrangement of the camera unit 1210 anda cross section of the principal components of the camera unit. Here thesuction cup 1301 in the arrangement of FIG. 34 is replaced by theadhesive member 1402, which is provided on the back surface of thecamera via a flexible support member 1401. The flexible support member1401 and adhesive member 1402 are affixed to each other by a bondingagent strongly enough so that they will not separate under ordinary use.The flexible support member 1401 has a projection 1403 to prevent itfrom falling off. This projection is fitted into an engagement portion1212 provided on the housing of the camera unit 1210. The engagementportion 1212 is formed as an integral part of the camera housing.

[0243] In this arrangement, the portion for attaching the suction-cupmember 1301 of FIG. 34 to the housing is given a shape the same as thatmentioned above so that commonality is achieved with regard to the shapeon the camera side. As a result, it is possible to select fixing meansadapted to adapted to almost all monitor configurations and surfaceshapes. Thus, the present invention can be applied broadly and at lowcost.

[0244] As for the adhesive member 1402, it is possible to use asubstance which manifests an adhesive property by adjusting the degreeof vulcanization of urethane rubber, by way of example. Such a substanceis adhesive at all times under ordinary temperatures. If it becomescontaminated with clinging dust or the like, the contaminants can bewiped off using water or alcohol to restore the original adhesiveproperty. Accordingly, the substance is suited to the camera fixingmeans of an image communication apparatus intended for general users.

[0245]FIGS. 36A and 36B are illustrative views showing the constructionof the camera unit of an image input unit according to the seventhembodiment of the invention. FIG. 36A is an external front view and FIG.36B a sectional view of the principal components.

[0246] Shown in FIGS. 36A and 36B are a back cover 1310, a resilientmember 1311, a front cover 1320, a lens barrel unit 1330, a photographiclens group 1331, a focus spacer 1340, an area sensor 1350, a connectorreceptacle 1360, a flexible printed circuit board 1370, a connector plug1380 an unlock button 1381 of the same plug, and a connecting cord fortransmitting an image signal, a clock, a synchronizing signal, etc.

[0247] The lens barrel unit 1330 holding the lens group 1331 isthreadedly engaged with the focus spacer 1340 and turns relative to thespacer so that a focusing adjustment can be performed. The focus spacer1340 has a spot facing 1341 which mates with the exterior of the packageof area sensor 1350, which consists of a transparent plastic package. Bybeing brought into abutting contact with the front face of the package,the spacer effects positioning along three axes.

[0248] The flexible printed circuit board 1370 on which the area sensor1350, the connector receptacle 1360 and peripheral elements (not shown)are mounted is clamped between the front cover 1320 and back cover 1310via the resilient member 1311, such as a sponge or rubber sheet,disposed at the back of the area sensor 1350 in the plane of the board.Thus the board is clamped in the abutting state. By providing the covermembers or the flexible printed circuit board itself with an elasticallydeformed urging member, the resilient member 1311 may be eliminated.Further, the connector receptacle 1360 that couples with the connectorplug 1380 is surface-mounted on the flexible printed circuit board 1370and is mechanically connected to either the front cover 1320 or backcover 1310 to provide mechanical strength.

[0249] In accordance with the image communication apparatus of theseventh embodiment described above, it is possible to dispose the opticaxis of the camera in coincidence with the user's line of sight whileleaving the monitor screen in view. Thus, coincidence of lines of sight,which does not rely upon a method of actually aligning the lines ofsight, can be achieved using an approximation solution which isefficient and inexpensive.

[0250] The present invention can be applied to a system constituted by aplurality of devices or to an apparatus comprising a single device.

[0251] Furthermore, the invention is applicable also to a case where theinvention is embodied by supplying a program to a system or apparatus.In this case, a storage medium, storing a program according to theinvention constitutes the invention. The system or apparatus installedwith the program read from the medium realizes the functions accordingto the invention.

[0252] As many apparently widely different embodiments of the presentinvention can be made without departing from the spirit and scopethereof, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to thespecific embodiments thereof except as defined in the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An image sensing apparatus sensing an image tosupply to an information processing device, said apparatus comprising: acamera unit; and a base unit connected to the camera unit, the base unithaving: signal processing means for performing a process to supply animage signal from the camera unit to the information processing device;and timing control means for controlling a timing in which the imagesignal is supplied from the camera unit to the information processingdevice.
 2. An image sensing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein thecamera unit comprises a lens, and a sensor converting incident lightfrom an object through the lens into an image signal.
 3. An imagesensing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the signal processingmeans comprises storage means for storing an image signal sensed by thecamera unit.
 4. An image sensing apparatus according to claim 3 ,wherein the storage means comprises a first-in-first-out type memory. 5.An image sensing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the signalprocessing means comprises a register used for transmitting andreceiving data to and from the information processing device.
 6. Animage sensing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the base unit isin a shape of card.
 7. An image sensing apparatus sensing an image tosupply to an information processing device, said apparatus comprising: acamera unit; and a base unit connected to the camera unit having: signalprocessing means for processing to supply an image signal from thecamera unit to the information processing device; and audio input meansfor inputting audio.
 8. An image sensing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the camera unit comprises a lens, and a sensor convertingincident light from an object through the lens into an image signal. 9.An image sensing apparatus according to claim 7 , wherein the signalprocessing means comprises storage means for storing an image signalsensed by the camera unit.
 10. An image sensing apparatus according toclaim 9 , wherein the storage means comprises a first-in-first-out typememory.
 11. An image sensing apparatus according to claim 7 , whereinthe signal processing means comprises a register used for transmittingand receiving data to and from the information processing device.
 12. Animage sensing apparatus according to claim 7 , wherein the audio inputmeans is provided at a side surface of the base unit, the side surfacebeing different from a surface at which the base unit is connected tothe information processing device.
 13. An image sensing apparatusaccording to claim 7 , further comprising audio output means foroutputting audio.
 14. An image sensing apparatus according to claim 13 ,wherein the audio output means is provided at a same side surface of thebase unit at which the base unit is connected to the camera unit.
 15. Animage sensing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the audio outputmeans and the camera unit are connected to the base unit through acable.
 16. The apparatus according to claim 7 , wherein the base unit isin a shape of card.
 17. An image sensing apparatus comprising: imagesensing means for sensing an image; a switch arranged around the imagesensing means; storage means for storing image data obtained by theimage sensing means; and means for altering a read-out sequence of theimage data stored in the storage means in accordance with an operationof the switch.
 18. An image sensing apparatus according to claim 17 ,further comprising connecting means for connecting an informationprocessing device.
 19. An image sensing apparatus according to claim 17, further comprising display means for displaying a direction into whichan image is sensed by the camera unit.
 20. An image sensing apparatuscomprising: image sensing means for sensing an image; storage means forstoring image data sensed by the image sensing means; gravity detectionmeans for detecting a direction of the gravity; and means for altering aread-out sequence of the image data stored in the storage means inaccordance with an output of the gravity detection means.
 21. An imagesensing apparatus according to claim 20 , further comprising connectingmeans for connecting an information processing device.
 22. An imagesensing apparatus according to claim 20 , further comprising displaymeans for displaying a direction into which an image is sensed by thecamera unit.
 23. An image sensing apparatus according to claim 20 ,wherein the gravity sensing means comprises a rotating pendulum whichdetects a direction of gravity.
 24. An image sensing apparatus accordingto claim 23 , wherein the rotating pendulum comprises a rotary shaftwhich substantially coincides with a direction of image sensing by theimage sensing means, and a sector-shaped portion that is perpendicularto the rotary shaft, and wherein the image sensing apparatus comprisessensor means for sensing a position of the sector-shaped portion.
 25. Animage sensing apparatus sensing an image to supply to an informationprocessing device, comprising: a camera unit; a base unit connected tothe camera unit, the base unit including signal processing means forperforming a process to supply an image signal from the camera unit tothe information processing device; fixing means for fixing the cameraunit to the information processing device so that the camera is fixedseparatly from the base unit.
 26. An image sensing apparatus accordingto claim 25 , wherein the fixing means detachably fixes the camera unitto the information processing device.
 27. An image sensing apparatusaccording to claim 26 , wherein the fixing means comprises a suckerwhich adsorbs the camera unit.
 28. An image sensing apparatus accordingto claim 26 , wherein the fixing means comprises an adhesive whichadheres the camera unit.